In order to move towards discrete analyses of soil behaviour, we need to develop a new range of apparatus and testing techniques. The lecture describes attempts to develop these new apparatus and presents data for a range of coarse-grained geomaterials at the single particle scale. The roles of the particle morphology and hence geological origin are discussed and are shown to influence both the contact mechanics and particle breakage behaviour. The mechanics of single particles are shown to be more complex than generally assumed and will require new means of modelling to account for the significant plasticity that occurs at particle contacts and patterns of breakage that are strongly influenced by the origins of particles and their effect on their morphology.

Keywords: Particle mechanics, Laboratory apparatus, Sands, Coarse-grained soils,

Submitted on May 30, 2023.
Final Acceptance on November 20, 2023.
Discussion open until November 30, 2024.
DOI: 10.28927/SR.2024.006723